The UK is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to simplify border controls and increase security. The new rules apply to citizens of a number of countries and the UK government is rolling the new system out in phases. In this article, we discuss when you must apply for an ETA, who this is applicable to, how to do it, how much it costs and when the changes will take effect.
What is an ETA and who does it apply to?
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an electronic permit to enter the UK. It is required for citizens of visa-free countries and will be compulsory for both air and sea travellers.
Which countries require an ETA for travel to the UK?
Below is the schedule of how the ETA will be rolled out for different countries:>
Phase 1: Gulf Cooperation Council Countries
Launch Date: February 1st, 2024 Applies to: Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates>
Phase 2: Non-European Visa Waiver Countries
Applications Open: November 27th, 2024 Requirement Starts: January 8th, 2025 Applies to: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, United States and Uruguay
Phase 3: European Countries
Applications Open: March 5th, 2024 Requirement Starts: April 2nd, 2025 Applies to: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Vatican City
How do I apply for an ETA?
The process of applying for an ETA is online and can be completed via eSky. Here are the steps:
- Go to the Visa page on the eSky website.
- Select your travel destination and dates, if an ETA is required during the selected period, the page will allow you to start your application.
- Complete the form, providing:
- Personal details,
- Passport information (including photo),
- Purpose of the trip.
- Pay the application fee (around £15).
- You will receive a decision within 72 hours.
When will the ETA be compulsory?
From February 2024, an ETA is required for the first section of visa-free countries. You can see the full list in the “Which countries require an ETA for travel to the UK?” section of this article.
Please note that failure to obtain an ETA may result in you being refused entry to the UK.
Are there any exceptions?
An ETA is not required for those who hold:
- A UK visa,
- UK settled status,
- Irish citizens.
How long is an ETA valid?
The ETA is valid for two years from the date of issue or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period it allows multiple entries into the UK, provided that each stay does not exceed six months.
Summary
From February 2025, an ETA to the UK will be essential for people travelling for both tourism and business. The application process is quick and inexpensive, so it is worth making sure all the paperwork is in place before you leave. To avoid problems at the border, your ETA application should be one of the most important steps in planning your trip.